Fatah and Hamas eye truce deal

Gaza, 05 Oct-(ANA)-Hamas and Fatah, the warring parties that have divided the Palestinian territories, are to consider an Egyptian-brokered deal that sketches out a path to peace between them, but which also faces many further obstacles.

Officials close to the negotiations, which have been going on for much of the two years since Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in a brief civil war, said a deal may be signed in Cairo on Oct. 22.

Talks are due to begin on Oct. 19. Despite frequent such meetings in Egypt in the past, the Islamist Hamas and secular Fatah, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, have missed several previous deadlines.

The deal would map out a process of reconciliation, intended to culminate in presidential and parliamentary elections.

Both sides are sounding more positive on the chances of signing an accord this time, which would start the countdown towards elections in late June.

But officials are still cautious on the chances of seeing the process through, given the deep resentments felt on either side. (ANA)

FA/ANA/05 October 2009---